Tuesday, the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service launched a 30-day public scoping period to help advise the development of a Resource Management Plan (RMP) for Browns Canyon National Monument. The BLM and USFS say they want to hear from the public regarding any resource management issues that should be addressed in the RMP.
Photo courtesy of Brownscanyon.org.
“Public involvement is essential in developing the plan and managing Browns Canyon for current and future generations,” said Royal Gorge Field Manager Keith Berger. “We look forward to building on the strong community engagement established in the initial planning stages.”
The BLM’s Royal Gorge Field Office is spearheading the effort. It will host three public meetings to discuss the RMP, answer questions, and accept written comments. The public meetings will take place in Salida, Buena Vista, and Golden. The local meeting times and locations are as follows.
June 3, Salida, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the SteamPlant Event Center, 220 West Sackett Avenue.
June 4, Buena Vista, from from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center, 715 E Main Street.
Spanning nearly 22,000 acres, Browns Canyon National Monument offers breathtaking scenery and access to the Arkansas River. It features premier fishing, camping, and white-water rafting, Browns canyon is a must-visit destination for recreationists.
Working with the public, the state, and key stakeholders to develop the RMP will help the Department of the Interior to further several initiatives. Notably, this RMP says public input will help them explore enhanced recreational opportunities, and building the foundations of a meaningful conservation stewardship legacy.
The BLM and USFS are also offering two Public Scoping Webinars online for those who would like to tune in. The first sessions will take place from noon to 1 p.m. MDT, on Wednesday May 29 and another from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. MDT on June 4.
The leading agencies request public comments be submitted by June 13, allowing the agencies to adequately assess each comment and concerns raised. All comments must be submitted through the BLM ePlanning site at https://go.usa.gov/xn2eC or mailed to BCNM RMP/EIS, 5575 Cleora Road, Salida, CO 81201.
The BLM and USFS remind the public that, “Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or any other personal identifying information in your comments, be advised that your entire comment, including personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. While individuals may request the BLM to withhold personal identifying information from public view, the BLM cannot guarantee it will be able to do so.”
This is a topic that is near to my heart… Many thanks! Where are your contact details though?